Manifest’ Named Cambridge Dictionary’s Word of the Year 2024 Amid Rising Popularity

The Cambridge Dictionary has named «manifest» as its Word of the Year for 2024, citing a significant surge in look-ups following its widespread popularity on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. «Manifest,» in its newest usage as a verb, refers to the act of using visualization and affirmation, with the aim of achieving desired outcomes through positive thinking.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the term was selected due to its increased frequency in searches, expanding use across various media outlets, and its evolving meaning in contemporary language. «In 2024, the word ‘manifest’ jumped from being mainly used in the self-help community and on social media to being mentioned widely across mainstream media,» stated the Cambridge Dictionary’s Publishing Manager, Wendalyn Nichols.

«Manifesting,» as defined, involves specific practices to focus one’s mind on desired goals in the belief that doing so increases the likelihood of realization. This idea has been popularized by several celebrities, including singers and athletes, who credit their accomplishments to the power of manifestation.

Sander van der Linden, a professor of social psychology at Cambridge University, however, cautioned about the practice, defining it as «magical thinking» devoid of scientific proof. «Manifesting gained tremendous popularity during the pandemic on TikTok with billions of views, including the popular 3-6-9 method,» van der Linden explained. He highlighted the lack of discernible benefits associated with such practices, urging for a critical understanding of the difference between healthy positive thinking and unproven pseudoscience.

The Cambridge Dictionary emphasized that alongside «manifest,» other terms considered for the 2024 Word of the Year included «brat,» «ecotarian,» and «resilience,» reflecting various cultural and societal trends. The significance of «manifest» this year underscores how language evolves, often influenced by digital media and global events.